Decadent Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies Recipe

Indulge in a delightful twist on traditional cookies with these heavenly Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies. A fusion of soft, strawberry-infused cookie dough enveloping a delectable frozen disc of tangy cream cheese filling, with a swirl of homemade strawberry jam running through, these cookies are a true showstopper. Imagine the sheer delight of sinking your teeth into the cookie, savoring the contrast between the sweet cookie, zesty cheesecake filling, and fruity jam—it’s a flavor explosion that will leave you craving more.

Crafted after a memorable dessert experience at a wedding, where tiny cheesecakes vanished in seconds, these cookies encapsulate the essence of a cheesecake but in a handheld treat. The balance of flavors and textures in each bite is a testament to the care put into every step of the recipe. From freezing the cream cheese filling to perfection to swirling in the jam just right, these cookies are a labor of love that is sure to impress even the most discerning of palates. Whether it’s a special occasion or a simple weekday craving, these Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies are bound to become your go-to recipe for wowing friends and family alike.

Quick Benefits

• Impressively impressive dessert that looks and tastes amazing
• Unique flavor combination with sweet cookie, tart cheesecake filling, and fresh strawberry jam
• Textural contrast of soft cookie exterior with cool, creamy cheesecake center
• Perfect for special occasions and guaranteed to impress everyone who tries them

Why You’ll Love This Decadent Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies Recipe Recipe

• Impressive Presentation: These cookies look as amazing as they taste, making them perfect for special occasions or when you want to wow your guests.
• Unique Flavor Profile: The combination of sweet cookie dough, tart cheesecake filling, and fresh strawberry jam creates a perfect balance of flavors that will have your taste buds dancing.
• Textural Contrast: Experience the soft and strawberry-studded cookie exterior giving way to a cool and creamy cheesecake center, creating a delightful contrast in every bite.
• Professional Baker Approved: Even the hardest-to-impress bakers will be asking for this recipe after trying these cookies, making them a hit with both home bakers and professionals alike.
• Magical Eating Experience: Biting into these cookies will make you pause and savor the layers of flavor and texture, creating a truly special moment with each bite.
• Versatile: Whether it’s a birthday party, bridal shower, or just a regular day, these cookies are perfect for any occasion where you want to treat yourself or impress your guests.
• Homemade Goodness: The use of homemade jam, fresh strawberries, and the hidden cream cheese filling elevates these cookies to a level that store-bought treats just can’t match.
• Celebrity Chef Feels: Impress your friends and family by serving these cookies that not only taste incredible but also showcase your skills in the kitchen, making you feel like a celebrity chef in your own right.

Ingredients for Decadent Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies Recipe

Strawberry Jam

• 3½ tablespoons (42 grams) light brown sugar
• 10 oz (280 grams) fresh strawberries, finely diced

Cheesecake Filling

• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 tablespoons (38 grams) granulated sugar
• 6 oz (170 grams) cream cheese, softened

Strawberry Cookies

• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 egg
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¾ cup (130 grams) finely diced fresh strawberries
• 2½ cups (315 grams) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Extra granulated sugar for sprinkling
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ cup (113 grams) unsalted butter, melted
• ¼ cup homemade strawberry jam
• ¾ cup (150 grams) granulated sugar

How to Make Decadent Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Make the strawberry jam

Clean and remove stems from strawberries. Finely chop them and combine with brown sugar in a pot. Cook over medium-high heat until thickened to a third or quarter cup. Cool, measure a quarter cup, and refrigerate.

Step 2: Prepare cheesecake filling

Combine softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Line a tray with parchment paper and form 12 one-tablespoon portions of the mixture into discs. Freeze for one hour until firm.

Step 3: Start the cookie dough

Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. In a bowl, mix melted butter, vanilla, and sugar until sugar dissolves. Add egg and mix thoroughly.

Step 4: Finish the dough

Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Fold into wet ingredients using a spatula until a thick, slightly dry dough forms. Gently fold in diced strawberries.

Step 5: Swirl in the jam

1. Divide the dough, flattening part on the bottom of the bowl. Add a portion of the jam, then cover with the remaining dough. Repeat with the rest of the jam and dough to create a swirled effect.

Step 6: Chill the dough

Divide the dough into 12 equal portions and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Step 7: Assemble the cookies

Flatten each chilled dough portion and wrap around a frozen cheesecake disc, sealing it completely. Shape into a ball, wet or spray hands if dough sticks.

Step 8: Bake

Arrange cookies on baking sheets, ensuring they are 4 inches apart. Bake in batches of 6 due to their size. Gently flatten each cookie and sprinkle with sugar. Bake for 13 to 16 minutes until edges are lightly golden.

Step 9: Cool and store

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack. Wait until they are no longer soft to the touch. Store at room temperature for up to one day, or in the refrigerator in an airtight container for extended freshness.

Storage Tips

To store these strawberry cheesecake cookies, ensure they are completely cooled to room temperature before handling. Once cooled, store the cookies in an airtight container with a layer of parchment paper between each layer to prevent sticking. It’s best to keep them in the refrigerator to maintain the freshness of the cream cheese filling and the homemade strawberry jam. They can last for up to 3-4 days in the fridge, but for optimal taste and texture, it’s recommended to consume them within the first 2 days.

For longer-term storage, you can freeze the cookies. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag with layers of parchment paper between each cookie. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let the cookies thaw in the refrigerator overnight or on the countertop for a few hours. The frozen cookies can last for up to 2-3 months in the freezer. Remember to label the container with the date to keep track of their freshness. Enjoy the cookies chilled or at room temperature for a delightful treat anytime!

Ingredient Substitutions

For potential ingredient substitutions in this recipe, you can consider using frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones, especially if fresh strawberries are not in season or unavailable. Simply thaw the frozen strawberries and finely dice them before incorporating them into the cookie dough. Additionally, you can swap the homemade strawberry jam with store-bought strawberry jam if you’re short on time or looking for a convenient option. Just ensure to choose a high-quality strawberry jam to maintain the delicious flavor profile of the cookies.

If you prefer a healthier option, you can substitute the granulated sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. Keep in mind that this substitution may alter the texture slightly, so adjust the amount of liquid ingredients accordingly to maintain the right consistency of the cookie dough. Furthermore, for a dairy-free version, you can replace the cream cheese with a plant-based cream cheese alternative. Make sure the dairy-free cream cheese is soft and spreadable to achieve a similar creamy filling texture in the cookies. These ingredient substitutions offer flexibility while still allowing you to enjoy the delightful flavors and textures of these strawberry cheesecake cookies.

Serving Suggestions

For a stunning presentation, serve these strawberry cheesecake cookies on a tiered dessert stand or platter garnished with fresh whole strawberries and a dollop of whipped cream. The contrast of the vibrant red strawberries against the golden cookies will make for an eye-catching display that’s perfect for special occasions or elegant tea parties.

Another fun way to serve these delightful cookies is to plate them individually on decorative dessert plates, drizzling a swirl of extra homemade strawberry jam on the side for a pop of color and extra fruity flavor. Garnish each plate with a mint leaf for a touch of freshness and a visually appealing finish that will elevate the cookies from a simple treat to a gourmet dessert experience.

FAQs for Decadent Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies Recipe

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before dicing and incorporating them into the cookie dough.

Can I use store-bought strawberry jam instead of homemade jam?

Yes, you can use store-bought strawberry jam instead of homemade jam. However, homemade jam will provide a fresher and more intense strawberry flavor to the cookies.

Can I freeze the cookie dough instead of just chilling it?

Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough for about 15-20 minutes to make it easier to handle, especially when assembling the cookies with the frozen cream cheese filling. Just ensure the dough is not frozen solid to prevent difficulty in shaping the cookies.

Can I substitute the cream cheese with a lighter alternative?

For the best texture and flavor, it’s recommended to use full-fat cream cheese in this recipe. Lighter alternatives may affect the creaminess and tanginess of the cheesecake filling.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies are truly a labor of love that never fails to impress. The combination of juicy strawberries, tangy cream cheese, and sweet jam all wrapped in a soft cookie exterior is a delightful surprise with every bite. While the process may seem daunting at first, the end result is absolutely worth the effort and attention to detail.

So, the next time you’re looking to wow your guests or simply treat yourself to something special, give these Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies a try. They are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire, just as they have in mine. Embrace the process, enjoy the journey, and savor the moment when you bite into one of these delectable cookies and experience the explosion of flavors. Happy baking, and may your kitchen be filled with the sweet aroma of freshly baked Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies!